LAGOS COMMENCES SECOND SCREENING EXERCISE FOR INTENDING PILGRIMS

The Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board (LSCPWB), on Wednesday, commenced the second phase of the screening exercise for intending Pilgrims to Jerusalem, Greece and Rome slated for December, 2019.

Addressing the prospective pilgrims during the screening at the Chapel of Christ, Alausa, Ikeja, the Board Executive Secretary, Mrs. Florence Gbafe stated that the exercise is imperative as the impending journey is physically exerting, hence the need for all participants to be medically examined and certified fit, in addition to ensuring that all travel documents are valid.

She disclosed that the Lagos State Government is doing everything possible to ensure the pilgrimage exercise is hitch-free, stressing that “The State government will make adequate preparations for you to have a memorable and worthwhile experience during the holy exercise as there will be medical doctors and nurses to accompany you on the journey”.

While noting that this particular pilgrimage promises to be an unforgettable spiritual experience with overpowering emotions, excitement and adventure, Gbafe warned those that want to use the exercise as an avenue to abscond from the country to have a change of mind as the government has concluded plans to deter such moves.

According to her, “The Lagos State Government won’t allow anyone to use the holy pilgrimage to elope as we are working with relevant agencies deter such moves, starting with the screening exercise”.

Head of the Medical Team, Dr Yomi Jaiye, in his remarks, stated that new equipment, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) which jerks up the heart to prevent sudden collapse has been provided for the journey, likewise mobile inhalers and nebulizers for asthmatic patients.

The exercise, which was extended by a day to accommodate an additional 500 prospective pilgrims, was also witnessed by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Home Affairs, Mrs. Adebunmi Elizabeth Adekanye as well as representatives of Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), the Immigration Service and Board Members of LSCPWB respectively, as part of efforts to ensure smooth conduct of the screening programme.

Recall that the administrative/medical screening is a statutory prerequisite programme organised by LSCPWB to orientate intending pilgrims for the yearly exercise with the first phase already conducted in October 2019.